Rafael Nadal has withdrawn from the Australian Open after suffering an injury in the Brisbane International, which was supposed to be his warm-up for a return to Melbourne Park.
Nadal confirmed on Sunday night he had undergone an MRI which revealed he had suffered a “micro tear on a muscle” during his loss to Aussie Jordan Thompson, and will fly back to Spain to receive treatment.
The 22-time slam champion was set to be an unseeded entrant into the season-opening grand slam, meaning he would not have been protected from a first-round match against a seeded rival – such as Novak Djokovic.
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Nadal missed the last 12 months of tennis following a hip injury during his second round loss at last year’s Australian Open.
While the injury is not severe, meaning he is hopeful of returning to the court later this year, he will not appear at what many expected would be his final Australian Open.
“Hi all, during my last match in Brisbane I had a small problem on a muscle that as you know made me worried,” Nadal tweeted on Sunday night.
“Once I got to Melbourne I have had the chance to make an MRI and I have micro tear on a muscle, not in the same part where I had the injury and that’s good news.
“Right now I am not ready to compete at the maximum level of exigence in 5 sets matches. I’m flying back to Spain to see my doctor, get some treatment and rest.
“I have worked very hard during the year for this comeback and as I always mentioned my goal is to be at my best level in 3 months.
“Within the sad news for me for not being able to play in front of the amazing Melbourne crowds, this is not very bad news and we all remain positive with the evolution for the season.
“I really wanted to play here in Australia and I have had the chance to play a few matches that made me very happy and positive.
“Thanks all for the support and see you soon! Rafa”
Nadal’s withdrawal will promote Quentin Halys into the main draw.
